THE ETZ CHAIM APPROACH
Etz Chaim Hee… it is a Tree of Life for all those
who grasp it, and all who uphold it are blessed. Its ways are pleasantness,
and all its paths are peace.
- Proverbs 3:17-18
Being Jewish is not merely what we are, but how we are. Judaism provides
us with a dynamic view of life, infusing everything with meaning and
connecting each of us with a sense of being part of something much bigger
than ourselves alone. It encourages a joyful manner of living, it fosters
an enduring commitment to prayer and study (Tefilah and Torah), and
it promotes a sensitivity and respect for others and the world, leading
to the desire to take responsibility for each other and ourselves (Chevra
and Gemilut Chasadim). This Jewish view of life directs our attitudes
and behavior, ultimately, guiding us to become self-knowing, productive,
and good human beings.
The Etz Chaim School seeks to guide each child’s development in acquiring
his or her own positive sense of Jewish identity. Positive Jewish identity
is developed and acquired through 1) gaining reverence for and actively
participating in Jewish practices and traditions; 2) gaining both a
broad perspective and certain depth of Jewish knowledge through study
of Hebrew Bible, rabbinic literature, and Jewish history; 3) appreciation
and active study of the Hebrew language; 4) appreciation, celebration,
and study of the State of Israel; and 5) the practice and habit of tzedakah
and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness).
The Etz Chaim School supports and encourages warm and positive relationships
between students and their teachers, as they are among their most important
Jewish role models. Furthermore, we strive for creative, active, dynamic
classroom environments, emphasizing social interaction and cooperative
learning.
The Etz Chaim School is a model of K’lal Yisrael, valuing the entire
community of the Jewish people. We understand our primary goals include
helping students, teachers, and parents, along with the rest of the
Valley Beth Shalom synagogue, to connect to one another as a vibrant,
Jewish community. Moreover, we celebrate diversity in our student body
and school community. We hold the utmost respect for all Jewish backgrounds
and practices. The school is coeducational and egalitarian, providing
equal opportunity for boys and girls in every respect to their Jewish
and spiritual lives.
Staff
Rabbi Paul
Steinberg - Principal
Paul Steinberg joined the VBS rabbinic team in July of 2008 and is the
Head of the Etz Chaim Hebrew School.
Rabbi Steinberg was raised in Tucson, Arizona, where he graduated from
the University of Arizona with an award of academic distinction in Near
Eastern Studies. He also holds masters degrees in both education and
rabbinic studies and was ordained by the Ziegler School of Rabbinic
Studies in 2004. He has published several articles on Hebrew Bible and
Jewish education, as well as four books including, Study Guide to Jewish
Ethics (JPS, 2003) and the three-volume series Celebrating the Jewish
Year (JPS, 2007), two of which were named as 2007 National Jewish Book
Award Co-Runners-Up (volume 3 will be published in Jan. ’09).
Prior to joining VBS, Rabbi Steinberg served as the Rabbi and Director
of Jewish Studies and Hebrew at Levine Academy: A Solomon Schechter
School in Dallas, Texas. While at Levine Academy, Rabbi Steinberg developed
and implemented several innovative curriculum models in both Jewish
Studies and Hebrew, as well as a school-wide Jewish values initiative
called “The Ethical Covenant.” He also worked with other local synagogues
and institutions including “ATID,” a community high school program,
for which he chaired the curriculum committee, and Congregation Anshai
Torah, for which he was the rabbi of “The Upstairs Minyan,” an alternative,
monthly service.
Throughout his career, Rabbi Steinberg has stressed Judaism’s emphasis
on the transformational power of study and its approach to living a
moral life. He is married to Maureen Sweeney, an attorney, who now devotes
her time to raising their two daughters Rina and Nili.
